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The defoaming performance of a defoamer under static conditions and under dynamic conditions.
Release Date:
2023-08-23
Some defoamers perform excellently at first, but their effectiveness deteriorates significantly after a period of time. Many factors influence this, with at least two key reasons: 1) the defoamer is solubilized by surfactants, and 2) the active ingredient in the defoamer can be absorbed by colloidal resin particles. Ultimately, one must evaluate both the defoamer’s performance under dynamic conditions—where bubbles are actively forming—and its efficacy in static, ambient conditions. When the bubbly liquid returns to the storage tank or directly into the packaging container, a fast‑acting defoamer may still deliver good results in such confined, relatively closed spaces. This is because gas ingress into the bubbles and a brief drop in external pressure further inhibit bubble formation and stabilization. Wetting agents and emulsifiers can contract the gas within the bubbles; while the effect of a single agent may seem minor, when multiplied across millions of bubbles, it becomes significant—especially in enclosed systems. In contrast, during flexographic printing, where the ink roller and anilox roller operate in narrow, open gaps at high rotational speeds, bubbles form very rapidly.
Defoamers are broadly classified into two main types: those that act on oils and fats, and those that break down surfactants.
Chemical defoamers include polyethers, long-chain alcohols, and polysiloxanes. Among these, polyether-based defoamers exhibit excellent performance; however, silicone‑based defoamers may exert some toxicity toward mycelial growth and antibiotic production, often requiring dilution with oils for effective use.
When selecting a defoamer, first consider whether the defoamer is suitable for your industry, as different defoamers are designed for different applications. Second, since defoamers come in oil-based and water-based formulations, you should assess the amount of alcohol or organic solvents present in your system. It is widely recognized that alcohols have a defoaming effect, but they can also introduce certain interactions or interference. Additionally, pay attention to the defoamer’s effective pH range; highly acidic or highly alkaline environments place particularly stringent demands on defoamers, so it is essential to communicate with the manufacturer about the specific conditions of your application.
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